Glaucoma refers to several related eye conditions that affect your eye’s optic nerve, which is the part of the eye that sends visual signals to the brain for interpretation. Glaucoma can cause serious vision loss and even become permanent when left untreated. With offices in Lubbock and Midland, our eye care professionals at West Texas Eye Associates can help you manage the progression and treatment of glaucoma.
Remember, when it comes to glaucoma (and other eye issues), early detection is vital, and a routine eye exam by an eye doctor can help you maintain your current eyesight by controlling the progression of glaucoma without the need for eye surgery.
How does Glaucoma damage eyesight?
Glaucoma involves a fluid (IOP-Intraocular Pressure) buildup inside the eye, although the specific means that underlie the development of glaucoma are not fully understood. What is known is that the presence of high pressure negatively impacts the optic nerve’s functioning.
If left completely untreated, it is highly likely the condition may lead to eye surgery or even vision loss. Glaucoma is usually present in both eyes. While one eye may be more progressed, it is likely that the less-impacted eye will worsen within ten years without appropriate treatment from an ophthalmologist.
Glaucoma Types
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Primary Open Angle (POA) causes about 90% of glaucoma cases in the United States. POA is when the eye’s drainage channels gradually fail, causing a fluid backup in your eye. POA’s symptoms are usually mild (even subtle), so an exam by an eye doctor is typically required for an accurate diagnosis.
Angle Closure Glaucoma
AC glaucoma comes on rapidly and is a medical emergency when your eye’s drainage angle narrows between the iris and cornea. The result blocks outflowing eye fluid and may result in vision loss.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma (NTG)
The exact cause of NT glaucoma is not fully known; however, certain factors may contribute to its development – i.e., reduced blood flow to the optic nerve and increased risk of optic nerve damage.
Congenital Glaucoma
Congenital glaucoma is identified at birth or can develop during early childhood. This condition is rare. Other types include secondary and pigmentary glaucoma.
Ophthalmologist Help for Glaucoma Patients in Lubbock and Midland, TX
While there is no cure for glaucoma, there are glaucoma treatment options, therapies, and medications that are available to manage the condition better and protect your vision. If you need help diagnosing or managing glaucoma, contact the optometrist professionals at West Texas Eye Associates at 806-792-5900. Alternatively, you can use our online eye care clinic to contact an eye doctor near you for more information.
